1995 5SFE - Change Tensioner With Timing Belt?

[gmercoleza]

I've done a search and have found excellent write-ups for the timing belt and h2o pump replacement. However, the write-ups don't talk too much about the belt tensioner. I can't tell if it is a hydraulic unit or just a simple spring. I can't seem to even find a picture of it - maybe my search skills need serious help. On all the other vehicles I have done in the past, I have always replaced the tensioner, and in some cases the tensioner and idler pulleys. Is that necessary on this job? I want to do it once and be done with it.

On my KIA Sedona DOHC V6, a special tool was needed to tension the pulley after replacing the hydraulic self-adjusting tensioner. Is that going to be the same here?

[hill8570]

On the 5S-FE, it's just a spring (90507-18030) tensioning the #1 timing belt idler (13505-74011). Personally, I like to change out the tensioner spring and both idlers (along with the water pump and oil seals) while I'm in there...then I don't have to mess with it for a good long while. No special tool required.

[gmercoleza]

Thanks. So does the tensioner pulley just get pryed out of the way with a pry bar and then replaced the exact same way?

[carsrus]

Originally Posted by gmercoleza

Thanks. So does the tensioner pulley just get pryed out of the way with a pry bar and then replaced the exact same way?

No its a simple non self adjusting tensioner. Loosen the bolt and the tensioner goes up and down. When its tight all the way just tighten the bolt and done. The "tensioner" doesnt take up any slack as the belt streatches.